WA Geniuses Finalists for Premier's Science Awards

• Cook Labor Government supporting science, innovation through Premier's Science Awards
• This year's edition features 38 finalists across 10 categories
• Winners to share in $140,000 total prize pool, including $50,000 for Scientist of the Year
• Western Australians invited to vote for their People's Choice favourite
• Supports government's efforts to diversify WA's nation-leading economy

The Cook Labor Government is continuing to support science and innovation in Western Australia with this year's Premier's Science Awards (PSA) celebrating the State's incredible scientific research and education.

Now in its 24th year, the PSA continues to shine a spotlight on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and the people driving scientific progress in our State.

This year, 38 finalists have been selected across 10 categories, including Scientist of the Year, for which the winner will receive $50,000.

Winners of the remaining nine categories, including the new Government Science Project of the Year and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scientist of the Year, will each receive $10,000, bringing the total prize pool to $140,000.

The awards recognise WA researchers, students, educators and engagement providers who are applying their scientific expertise to solve real-world problems, improve lives, protect the environment, and understand the universe.

Finalists and winners also play an important role as role models, inspiring future generations to pursue courses and careers in STEM.

The finalists were selected by esteemed judging panels, bringing together leading experts to oversee a rigorous assessment process.

For the second consecutive year, members of the public are invited to take part by voting in the People's Choice Award. Voting is now open and will run for approximately five weeks, with the winner to be announced at the official awards ceremony later this year.

The PSA are proudly supported by gold sponsors BioCina, Shell and Woodside; silver sponsor DUG Technology; and bronze sponsors, CSIRO, Fogarty Foundation, Orthocell and Pawsey Supercomputing Research Centre.

The awards are also supported by Curtin University, Edith Cowan University, Murdoch University and The University of Western Australia; The Kids Research Institute Australia; Scitech and the Western Australian Museum; and The West Australian.

For more information and to vote in the People's Choice Award, head to: www.wa.gov.au/organisation/department-of-energy-and-economic-diversification/premiers-science-awards

As stated by Premier Roger Cook:

"My government is diversifying Western Australia's nation-leading economy so that it remains the strongest in the nation.

"That's why the Premier's Science Awards are so important.

"By recognising and celebrating the best our State has to offer in scientific research and education, we are ensuring future generations are inspired to pursue careers that will drive innovation in WA."

Comments attributed to Science and Innovation Minister Stephen Dawson:

"Science, technology, engineering and mathematics are critical to diversifying our economy and creating jobs for the future.

"These awards not only recognise the achievements of our world-class researchers, educators and students, but also help inspire the next generation to pursue STEM careers.

"I congratulate all 38 finalists and look forward to celebrating their achievements later this year."